NCAA, MEAC Reviewing Film Of Fight During Game

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (AP) — The NCAA and Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference officials are reviewing game film and witness statements about a Valentine’s Day fight that broke out during a women’s basketball game between Bethune-Cookman and Maryland-Eastern Shore.

Both schools said Tuesday in written statements that they will wait to hear from the league and NCAA before making any further comments regarding the altercation.

The incident occurred in the second half of Monday’s game, though it is unclear at this time what sparked the altercation. Referees suspended action with 16:22 to play because of unsportsmanlike behavior on both sides. Bethune-Cookman led 32-21 when play was stopped.

The fight was broken up by game officials, security and coaching staffs from each school.

No police report was filed on the incident.

“This is an extremely unfortunate incident to occur and we will execute a complete review to determine the necessary course of action,” MEAC Commissioner Dennis Thomas said in a statement. “For the welfare of all of our student-athletes, coaches and fans it is imperative that all participants exhibit good sportsmanship before, during and after all athletic events. It is regretful that the student-athletes involved in this situation did not follow that policy.”

Bethune-Cookman athletic director Lynn Thompson said in his statement that Monday’s incident “is not representative of who we are” and that “we pride ourselves on sportsmanship and integrity.”

Maryland-Eastern Shore AD Keith Davidson echoed those sentiments. He said in his statement that if it’s determined their players engaged in any improper conduct, that they would be subject to discipline.

“If we find that the behavior of our student-athletes does not reflect the values we promote then appropriate action will be taken,” Davidson said.

The two teams also played on Jan. 17, with Maryland-Eastern Shore winning 69-52.

Both schools are scheduled to play their next games Saturday on the road. Maryland-Eastern Shore is at Coppin State and Bethune-Cookman travels to Hampton.